During this time of year, our skin goes through a lot of dehydration and stress. That’s why having a winter skincare routine with nourishing ingredients and targeted products can really help bring back that healthy glow to our tired skin. When the temperature drops, our skin faces a tough battle. The cold weather and low humidity outside can zap our skin of its moisture and make sensitive skin even more irritated. This can leave us with dry, dull skin that’s prone to blemishes. To make matters worse, indoor heating and hot baths can make our already dry skin even worse. Add in aggressive exfoliation and other strong products, and it’s clear that our skin needs some serious help during the winter months.
But don’t worry, we can fix this, right? The good news is that we can definitely relieve the tightness, dryness, and flakiness we’re all experiencing, if we know what to do. That’s why we’ve gathered some smart tips, easy routine strategies, and product recommendations to help you create a winter skincare routine that tackles all these challenges – with some expert advice to guide you.
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Understand your skin’s needs: "Dry skin often looks dull and might get oily as the day goes on," explains facialist Teresa Tarmey. "Skin that’s been damaged, usually from using certain products, can be red and sensitive." If your skin feels irritated when you use certain products, it might be time to switch them out for something gentler. While products like vitamin C, clay masks, and peels can work wonders when used correctly, if your skin is currently struggling, it’s best to give it a break from these strong treatments until it’s back to its best.
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Choose the right cleanser: If you have dry or dehydrated skin, harsh foaming cleansers can strip away the natural oils that protect your skin. Instead, opt for a gentle milk, oil, or balm cleanser, and use lukewarm water with a soft cloth to cleanse your face in the morning and evening. Look for ingredients like aloe, glycerin, or other hydrating elements to keep your skin moisturized.
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Be gentle with exfoliation: Exfoliating is still important in winter to help your skin shed dead cells, but it’s crucial to do it gently. Instead of using harsh scrubs, try gentle acids like PHAs, recommended by Dr. Christine Hall. PHAs exfoliate the skin’s surface without penetrating too deeply, making them a great choice for sensitive winter skin.
By following these tips and making some adjustments to your skincare routine, you can help your skin stay healthy and glowing even during the harsh winter months.
